California Dreaming

California evokes joie de vivre, sun, and sea. Beyond the Beach Boys, surfer girls, and Hollywood, the Golden State is also home to many remarkable animals and stunning natural landscapes.

Expert Guided Field Trip along the Pacific Coast

Welcome to an unforgettable expedition to some of California’s most spectacular natural sites along the breathtaking Pacific coast!

Amid the towering redwoods — centuries-old sequoia forests — you can feel the power of these living giants, many of which could recount the history of humankind since the birth of Christ.

Discover the fascinating world of the kelp forests, often referred to as the ‘sequoias of the sea.’ These underwater forests act as vital carbon sinks and provide habitat for a diverse community of fish and invertebrates. Around 800 species rely on this unique ecosystem, which also supports local fisheries and the thriving surfing industry. A visit to the world-famous Monterey Bay Aquarium will reveal the secrets of this marine community and highlight important conservation initiatives.

Explore the stunning beauty of the Pacific coast and the Los Padres National Forest, which stretches eastward along Big Sur. Here, you may have the unique opportunity to observe Californian condors (Gymnogyps californianus), which have returned to the wild after a long absence thanks to the dedication of scientifically managed zoos and their remarkable breeding and reintroduction programmes.

This is your exclusive invitation to experience the wonders of California’s Pacific coast, its rich biodiversity, and its natural beauty. Sightings of seals, sea lions, elephant seals, and sea otters are guaranteed.

Join us and immerse yourself in the magic and wonder of this extraordinary natural environment!

Expert Guided Field Trip into the Desert

The Mojave Desert covers 35,000 square kilometres, primarily within southeastern California and southern Nevada, with small areas extending into Utah and Arizona. Its unique beauty and remarkable biodiversity form the focus of the second part of our exclusive field trip.

The desert’s boundaries are generally marked by the presence of Joshua trees (Yucca brevifolia), which are native only to the Mojave and are considered an indicator species. The region is home to an estimated 1,750 to 2,000 plant species. In addition to mammals such as coyotes and bighorn sheep, numerous reptiles, including the California gopher tortoise and the Mojave rattlesnake, thrive here. These animals have perfectly adapted to the harsh desert conditions, offering fascinating examples of nature’s resilience.

Join us to experience the wonders of the desert up close and to discover its extraordinary flora and fauna. Let yourself be captivated by the silence and beauty of this remarkable landscape.

Both field trips may be booked individually or together.